Devos' Stint In Hospital May End Soon

A week after a heart transplant, Orlando Magic owner Rich DeVos continues to make ''excellent progress'' and could be discharged as early as this weekend, team officials said Wednesday.

DeVos, 71, is recuperating at Harefield Hospital in London, where he underwent surgery June 3.

''News has been consistently good, and there is even talk about the possibility of allowing Rich to check out of the hospital and into the hotel by this weekend,'' Magic President Bob Vander Weide said.

Originally, DeVos was expected to remain hospitalized at least 2-3 weeks, followed by 3-4 months living near the hospital for monitoring.

Once DeVos moves into a hotel near Harefield, he will make two weekly visits to the hospital as an outpatient.

''All signs of recovery are very encouraging,'' the Magic said in a statement. ''He is taking more steps each day in his short walks within the transplant ward, his color has returned, and his voice is strong. While he continues to face the challenges of recovery we have mentioned before, progress after just one week has been tremendous.''

Despite physical concerns, DeVos remained in touch with Magic officials during the search for a new coach, which culminated with Chuck Daly's hiring the day DeVos underwent the transplant.